Are you an empty nester eagerly anticipating the arrival of your chicks back in the nest? Have you been cooking away, ready to pack some homemade meals for your children’s apartments or dorm rooms? Before sending food home with your kiddos, here’s what is TSA approved for their carry-ons and checked bags when flying. Follow the TSA approved list below to ensure your taste of home doesn’t get thrown in the trash!
TSA Is Ready For The Holidays
Thanksgiving and Christmas are the busiest travel holidays of the year. Airports are packed with eager travelers, excited for some quality family time. This also means extra long lines at security checkpoints at major airports. TSA is on alert — knowing all too well that travelers pack holiday leftovers and special treats in their bags. Don’t hold up the security line any further by bringing unauthorized food items in your carry-on. You run the risk of it going straight in the garbage bin, putting a damper on your great holiday weekend. See what is permitted below:
TSA Approved in Carry-On Luggage:
- Turkey and other meats
- Baked goodies (pies and cakes may be subject to additional screening)
- Breads
- Rice, stuffing and Mac & cheese
- Fresh fruits
- Candy
- Other solid items
TSA Unapproved Items in Carry-On Luggage – Must be in Checked Bags:
- Anything that can be spilled, sprayed, poured, pumped or spread and more than 3.4 oz.
- Jams, preserves and syrups
- Cranberry sauce and jellies
- Wine, champagne and other spirits
- Mousses and puddings
- Stews
- Gravy
Ice packs must be frozen; otherwise, you run the risk of them being taken. You can purchase TSA approved reusable ice packs for medications that can also be used for food. Check out the full TSA approved list here or download the app, called myTSA, for information on the go.
Modern Empty Nester Tips for Traveling with Food
- Put items on top of carry-on bag, since TSA will likely review them
- Avoid transporting meats and dairy items more than 2-3 hours and always use an ice pack
- Baked goods should be packed in a secure box, container or tin to avoid damage to desserts
- Freeze items to pass the TSA test while keeping food fresh upon arrival
- Pack food in leakproof containers
- Glass storage containers are microwave safe and double as serving dishes, but should be packed in checked bag
- Freeze stews for carry-ons, but ideally pack in checked bags in case melting occurs
- Double bag with a ziploc so items don’t leak in carry-on or checked bags
- When in doubt, place food items in checked bag!
With this TSA approved list, sending food home with your kiddos should be easy and worry-free! Enjoy the time together … and send a taste of home back with them if possible!
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